Finding accommodation in Canada is one of the first things that newcomers will want to tick off their to-do list. Depending on the circumstances, individuals might wish to find temporary accommodation in Canada first, while they search for apartments/ houses for rent in Canada. 

Well, first things first – students choose Canada for its world-class education, multiculturalism, and quality of life. The welcoming atmosphere, work opportunities and focus on research contribute to a well-rounded academic experience in a holistic way.  Canada is a safe, clean, and welcoming country with superb healthcare, education, and social service. Now, that makes it a wonderful place to live for people of all ages. 

So, without further ado, let us begin with how you can find accommodation in Canada. 

Finding Accommodation In Canada

Accommodation alternatives in Canada vary depending on the city, province, and your personal preferences. One needs to make sure about where they are going to stay. Is it completely safe for them to stay or not? The location must be accessible. 

What costs are included? What facilities can they expect after finalizing their accommodation? It’s natural for these questions to come to mind for every student. The following sections offer you a solution to finding accommodation in Canada. 

Types Of Accommodations In Canada

Some common types of accommodation available for students and newcomers in Canada are as follows: 

  • On-Campus-Housing

Many universities and colleges in Canada provide on-campus housing facilities for newcomers and new options are suitable mainly for first-year students. 

  • Houses 

Renting a house is an alternative, specifically, if you are accessible to a group of people or have a family. Houses are often more extensive; however, they are also pricey. 

  • Shared Accommodation 

Renting a room in a shared apartment is a cost-effective option. This involves sharing common areas like the kitchen and living room with other tenants.  

  • Temporary Accommodation 

If you come to Canada and require temporary accommodation while searching for a more permanent place, hostels are an option. Some cities also have extended stays, which offer more affordable rates for longer stays. 

  • Legal Considerations 

Another way of finding accommodation in Canada is through legal considerations. 

Renting in Canada generally involves signing a lease or tenancy agreement. It’s crucial to understand the terms and  conditions, like rent, duration, responsibilities, etc., as a tenant. 

  • Tenant Rights

Make yourself aware of the tenant rights in the province/ territory where you intend to live. Each jurisdiction has specific rules regarding rent increases, repairs, eviction procedures, etc.  

  • Cost Of Living 

Utilities and other costs are involved when finding accommodation in Canada. These include utilities, internet, transportation, etc. The cost of living varied by region, with higher costs in major urban cities. 

  • Local Support Service

Student housing services – Universities and colleges typically have accommodation services in every province that can assist students in finding suitable accommodation. 

  • Online Platforms

Numerous other platforms, like Kijiji, help users find accommodation in Canada online. Such platforms often provide a variety of housing options. 

How Much Is Canada’s Rent In Canada? 

In a nation as large and diverse as Canada, it can be challenging to answer this question. 

As of November 2023, Rentseeker.ca shows that the renting cost in Canada’s most popular destination cities can differ significantly. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in Edmonton would probably cost over $1,300 a month. However, if you are looking for a one-bedroom apartment in Vancouver, it will cost over $2,700. 

Between these ranges, Calgary, Montreal, and Hamilton might be close to the lower end. At the same time, Ottawa and Toronto are closer to the expensive end, with Toronto’s rental market, particularly, having become more expensive over recent years. 

What Is The Most Affordable Place To Live In Canada? 

Out of the larger Canadian cities, Montreal remains the most affordable city in Canada to rent. Well, the average price of a month’s rent in Montreal is cheaper, and can be relatively less if you are sharing accommodation. This compares favorably with other large Canadian cities. Other cities in Quebec, like Quebec, Gatineau, etc., are even more affordable when it comes to rent. 

Their information also makes clear that while Ontario houses Canada’s most expensive cities for renting, it is also home to some of the most affordable cities. Thus, newcomers seeking more affordable rentals must look towards smaller cities in Ontario and Quebec. 

Conclusion 

Navigating the landscape of accommodation in Canada presents both opportunities and challenges. Moreover, with a diverse array of alternatives ranging from urban apartments to suburban homes, finding suitable lodging is an achievement for families and individuals alike. 

However, factors like rising housing costs, limiting availability of specific regions, etc., can pose significant hurdles if you intend to move to Canada. 

Nevertheless, leveraging resources like online listings, community networks, and real estate agents can streamline the search process. Thus, perseverance, flexibility, and through research are vital in securing comfortable and affordable accommodation in Canada’s dynamic housing market.